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Business Details
17 Years
experience
Expert Opticians in Torquay
Established in 2009, Knapman Hayes is an independent optician practice serving the Torbay community. Our dedicated team of qualified optometrists and dispensing professionals prioritises patient care, combining thorough eye examinations with access to cutting-edge diagnostic technology, including OCT scanning. With decades of collective experience, we maintain a strong commitment to both professional excellence and a personalised service that distinguishes us from larger optical chains.

Our practice extends beyond the clinic through our Knapman Hayes home visiting service, ensuring accessibility for those unable to visit our Wellswood location. We remain steadfast in upholding the legacy of our co-founder, Eiohn Hayes, by treating every patient as an individual while maintaining the highest standards of ocular healthcare.
Services
Optical Care Eye Examinations OCT Scanning Home Visits Contact Lens Services
Details
  • Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
  • We provide home visiting optician services for housebound patients
  • Our team includes optometrists with over 25 years' experience
  • We use the latest OCT scanning technology for eye diagnostics
  • We offer both NHS and private eye examination options
  • Our practice has been serving Torbay since 2009
Associations and certifications
  • NHS registered
Services
Optical Care
Our comprehensive optical care service combines traditional expertise with modern technology. Patients receive thorough eye examinations using state-of-the-art equipment, including OCT scanning, ensuring accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment recommendations. Our qualified optometrists provide clear explanations of examination results while maintaining detailed patient records for ongoing care. This service caters to both NHS and private patients across all age groups.
OCT Scanning
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scanning offers advanced retinal imaging for early disease detection. This non-invasive technology creates 3D images of eye structures, enabling precise diagnosis of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. Our Zeiss OCT equipment provides detailed cross-sectional views that aid in monitoring eye health over time, offering patients greater diagnostic accuracy and peace of mind through early intervention opportunities.
Home Visits
Knapman Hayes home visiting service brings professional eye care to patients' residences. Available for housebound individuals meeting NHS eligibility criteria, our mobile optometrists conduct comprehensive eye examinations in familiar surroundings. This service includes spectacle dispensing and follow-up care, ensuring accessibility to essential eye health services for those unable to visit our Wellswood practice while maintaining the same high standards of care.
Eye Examinations
We offer comprehensive eye examinations for all ages, incorporating both visual acuity testing and ocular health assessments. Our optometrists tailor examinations to individual needs, providing detailed explanations of results and clear prescriptions. Children's eye tests use age-appropriate methods, while advanced diagnostic equipment supports thorough assessments for adults. These examinations help detect both vision problems and potential health concerns at early stages.
Contact Lens Services
Our contact lens service includes professional fitting, aftercare, and supply of various lens types. Experienced optometrists conduct thorough assessments to determine suitability for contact lens wear, considering individual lifestyle needs and eye health requirements. We provide comprehensive instruction on proper lens handling and maintenance, along with follow-up appointments to ensure ongoing comfort and eye health, offering patients an alternative vision correction option.
People
Lynda Hayes
Practice Owner
MC Optom graduate with extensive experience in diverse optical settings. Co-founder of Knapman Hayes, she combines professional expertise with community focus. Passionate about maintaining high standards while providing personal care to Torbay residents.
Richard
Optometrist
25+ years in optics with commitment to staying current with industry developments. Specialises in adapting to technological changes while maintaining personal patient relationships. Active in BMX racing community through family activities.
Kathy
Optometrist
38 years' experience in optometry with expertise in advanced diagnostic equipment. Contributes to local healthcare through hospital and church governance roles. Values professional excellence combined with workplace camaraderie.
Jean
Home Visits Specialist
50 years' optometry experience, including decade with Knapman Hayes home visiting service. Focuses on accessible care for housebound patients. Enjoys coastal walks and community engagement through local charity work.
Emma
Dispensing Optician
Four years at Knapman Hayes with dual focus on spectacle selection and patient care. Combines part-time work with studies and dance activities. Values professional development within a supportive team environment.
Questions
What areas do you cover for home eye visits?
We provide home visiting services across Torbay for patients meeting NHS eligibility criteria. Our Knapman Hayes team serves Wellswood, Torquay, and surrounding Devon areas.
What should I do for an eye emergency?
For urgent eye issues outside our opening hours, contact Torbay Hospital's 24-hour casualty department. Call 111 for immediate medical assistance with severe eye pain or vision loss.
Do you offer OCT scanning for all patients?
Yes, our OCT scanning service is available to all patients as part of comprehensive eye examinations. This advanced technology helps detect eye conditions at early stages.
Are children's eye tests free?
Yes, all children's eye examinations are free under the NHS. Our practice uses child-friendly methods with pictures and shapes to assess vision development accurately.
How do I book an appointment?
Book in-store visits by phone or through our website. Home visit appointments require eligibility confirmation first through our dedicated Knapman Hayes service line.